The Little Mermaid

The story, a take on Anderson’s original published in 1837, was also made into a Disney film.  This Pantomime version contained modern references and was in a traditional format, good versus evil with a happy ending.

There was effective use of all stage areas and the director Miranda Hughes successfully brought together the cast of adults and children. The Choreography, by first timer Emily-Rose Taylor, although perhaps a little static, was within the performers' capabilities, and the songs were well chosen and enthusiastically performed.

Aprons were used and the set comprised two free standing pieces with projection onto a rear screen. Inevitably when stage lights shine on any projection it is never clear or bright unless of course you have the facility for good back-projection, but it was nevertheless an effective way to stage the show at that particular venue.

Props and costumes were appropriate with some of the costumes being very inventive, especially the Seagull and the Crab.

There were a few sound issues, but the cast carried on valiantly.  Let’s hope the mic gremlins leave them alone in the future!

The cast characterisation was good, and all performed with enthusiasm. There were some notable performances, Erin Christy as the Seawitch, Alex Munoz as Carlton the Crab, and Clare Lymer as the Nanny. It was pleasing to see some very focused performances by younger cast members, namely Olly Costello as Guppy and Millie Deabill as Princess Arielle.

OMG are to be congratulated for staging this family entertainment on a windy January afternoon which was much enjoyed by their audience. The local children in the cast had obviously worked hard on their performances, and it is gratifying that they and their families committed their time to this village production.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.